Seven and counting...

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In the race for higher resolutions, camera-makers are looking to
7 megapixels as the new hot spec to have in the compact digital
category.

Seven-megapixel cameras remain smaller and easier to carry than
the 8 megapixel class, which is typically bulky and aimed at
enthusiasts.

They're not short on features, however, as the Optio 750Z ably
demonstrates.

Its high pixel count is combined with a very capable 5x optical
zoom lens (equivalent to 37.5mm to 187.5mm in film cameras) and 10
generous shooting modes, including stored custom options for as
many as three users. That's even before you take into account the
12 picture modes for lighting conditions such as sunset, night
scene and... ah, food.

Its movie mode can record at up to 30 frames per second at a
maximum 640 x 480-pixel resolution with sound.

The style cues of the Optio 750Z are drawn from classic manual
SLRs, but are more than just cosmetic. The black rubber layer
adorning the front helps with gripping the camera firmly.

This is a welcome change to the token bumps passing as handgrips
in most digital compacts. Another handy shooting aid is the
270-degree swivel LCD screen. It lets you take photos overhead or
from low, ground angles without having to dirty your clothes. If
the 1.8-inch display isn't sufficient, there's an optical
viewfinder as well.

Photos captured on the 750Z are excellent. Sharp, great contrast
and colours are well saturated. The only minor complaint is that it
tends toward graininess in the darker areas of photos. The controls
are well placed and intuitively designed, so that, even with so
many functions, the 750Z isn't overly difficult to figure out.

The main weakness in its controls is that it's difficult to zoom
precisely. Startup time is also slow, at about four seconds.

Despite its shortcomings, the 750Z is a strong package in the 7
megapixel category and impresses with its vast array of features
and quality.